It Looks Like An Ordinary Picnic Table, But It’s Hiding A Built-In Cooler

As someone born and raised in what might be considered the boondocks, I definitely understand the importance of a good porch. On a warm summer day, your porch is the perfect place to sip tea, catch up with friends, or watch a nice storm roll in.

And while some believe the kitchen is the heart of a house, I personally believe the porch — front or back, big or small — is the center of any home.

That's why good, solid patio furniture is so essential — and why this seemingly-simple table is so brilliant! Designed and built by Sarah Bowes of Domesticated Engineer, this table is not only gorgeous; it's incredibly practical and delightfully clever.

If your house is the go-to spot for any and all summertime soirees, then you need to check out these awesome picnic table plans. It's the perfect addition to any cookout, beer tasting, or birthday party.

What would you use this table for? Let us know in the comments below!

Please SHARE if you'd love to have this on your back porch!

Wanting to make a table that was more than just a table, blogger and "DIY-er" Sarah began to do some research. After finding some inspiration on Pinterest, she got to work.

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Domesticated Engineer

After sanding down her spruce boards, she began by drilling the pocket holes.

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Domesticated Engineer

Next, she arranged all her boards and laid two planter boxes, face down, in the middle.

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Domesticated Engineer

When everything was ready, she began to screw and glue all the pieces together. For this step, she enlisted the help of her hubby, Alex.

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Domesticated Engineer

After that was finished, she and Alex began to assemble the pieces that will go around the planter boxes.

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Domesticated Engineer

Next, they inserted slats and support pieces.

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Domesticated Engineer

When that was done, they attached the support boxes to the cross beams.

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Domesticated Engineer

Then, they lined up the support pieces with the table skirt.

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Domesticated Engineer

After everything was assembled, it was time to add the legs.

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Domesticated Engineer

After, it was time for the wood conditioner and stain. Finally, it was time to unveil the table's special feature...

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Domesticated Engineer

They removed the two pieces that cover the planter boxes, grabbed a bag of ice...

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Domesticated Engineer

...And added some of their favorite refreshments!

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Domesticated Engineer

Their picnic table is also a tabletop cooler!

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Domesticated Engineer

Wine, beer, soda, even popsicles — the summertime possibilities of this amazing table are endless!

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Domesticated Engineer

But Sarah and Alex aren't the only ones enjoying this clever design! Blogger Heidi has built a similar table herself.

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Kruse's Workshop

It seems like everyone is in love with this brilliant patio addition!

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Kruse's Workshop

Imagine the fun your friends and family would have during summertime parties and cookouts.

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Kruse's Workshop

Would you like to have a table like this? Let us know how you would use it in the comments below!

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Kruse's Workshop

Please SHARE if you love useful furniture like this!